Metro Esports and the YMCA of Greater Brandywine Join Forces to Empower Youth

Students engage in challenges and tournaments at the Metro Esports lab in the Oscar Lasko branch of the YMCA of Greater Brandywine.

Community Invited to Free Release Party for NBA 2K25

West Chester, PA – [Aug 30, 2024] – Metro Esports, a leading provider of esports programming, education and competitions, and the YMCA of Greater Brandywine (YGBW), a cornerstone of community development and youth enrichment, are thrilled to announce a strategic partnership aimed at empowering young people through the power of gaming and healthy living. The partnership kicks off on September 6 with a release party for NBA 2K25. The event is free to all in the community.

This collaboration will combine Metro Esports’ expertise in esports and STEM education, coaching, and competition with YGBW’s dedication to youth development, character building and healthy lifestyles. Together, the organizations will offer a comprehensive range of programs and initiatives that foster personal growth, teamwork and academic success.

The programs offered range from family-friendly gaming events to competitive esports leagues, tech-based enrichment programs and everything in between. Upcoming programs include “Roblox Tech Adventures” where participants will dive into the universe of Roblox and Roblox Studio, “Tech Day Off School Camp” where children will master and learn the technical aspects of building a computer and a series of fun weekly and monthly events, free to YGBW members.

Key elements of the partnership include:

Esports Programs: Jointly developing and implementing esports programs for youth of all ages, backgrounds and skill levels, including after-school clubs, competitive teams and educational STEM-based workshops.
Youth Development: Integrating esports into existing YMCA programs to promote leadership, teamwork, problem-solving and communication skills.
Healthy Living: Combining esports with physical activity and wellness initiatives to encourage a balanced lifestyle for young people – with a particular focus on social/emotional health and gaming safety.
Community Engagement: Hosting esports tournaments and events to bring the community together and raise awareness locally and academically of the benefits of esports.

“We are excited to partner with the YMCA of Greater Brandywine to create opportunities for young people to explore their passions for gaming and tech while developing essential skills,” said Ari Evans, VP Operations at Metro Esports. “This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of empowering the next generation of esports athletes, tech enthusiasts and young leaders through our programming and STEM-based learning initiatives.

“With its growth as both a hobby and a career, esports can be a powerful tool for youth development. We are thrilled to partner with Metro Esports to bring this innovative opportunity to our community,” said Bertram L. Lawson II, President and CEO of YGBW. “Together, we can create a positive and inclusive environment where young people can thrive.”

Esports at YGBW: https://ymcagbw.org/esports-ymca-greater-brandywine

About Metro Esports: https://metroesports.gg/locations/oscarlasko/

Category: Press